Mayor’s Youth Engagement Council for Climate Initiatives new cohort
Published on November 07, 2024
Cohort will deepen community engagement through the San Antonio Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
SAN ANTONIO (November 7, 2024) — San Antonio's youth are demonstrating exceptional ingenuity and passion in addressing our city’s climate issues.The Mayor’s Youth Engagement Council for Climate Initiatives (MYECCI) was created to help connect youth leaders with knowledge, skills, and resources to bring their ideas to life. Entering its fifth year, the Youth Engagement Council is excited to welcome 31 local youth representing each City Council district and 21 different public, private, and charter schools.
“As a Youth Engagement Council member, I hope to learn how to effectively advocate for issues that matter to young people and develop skills in leadership and teamwork,” said Jocelyn, a newly appointed member who is a junior at Judson Early College Academy. “I want to understand how local government works and how decisions are made. Additionally, I’m excited to gain experience in creating and implementing projects that can positively impact our community.”
The MYECCI was established in 2020 to include youth voices in the implementation of the City of San Antonio’s first Climate Action and Adaption Plan (CAAP). The last four cohorts have worked alongside community organizations, engaged in climate action using their City’s climate plan as a guide, and developed projects or suggested policy improvements that improve their communities’ health and well-being.
“Young San Antonio residents are eager to participate in local and global climate conversations to advocate for climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience,” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “I am proud of the Youth Engagement Council and their influence on our City’s sustainability efforts.”
The MYECCI is facilitated by the nonprofit EcoRise and is supported by a grant from the Hollomon Price Foundation. Its mission is to activate San Antonio’s next generation of climate champions to engage in community issues around climate change, environmental policy, and environmental justice.
“The perspective and the innovative ideas youth bring to the table have tangible impacts in our communities,” said Brittany Jayroe, EcoRise Senior Director, Youth Programs. “The Mayor’s Youth Engagement Council provides an important platform for youth to bring their ideas to life, participate in intergenerational dialogue, and learn from and support the work frontline community organizations are already championing.”
For information about EcoRise and last year’s Youth Engagement Council, visit EcoRise’s website. Community organizations and sustainability professionals in San Antonio can contact YouthPrograms@EcoRise.org to get involved in mentoring this year’s council members.